ACC Updates 2026:
Compensation & Dental Cover
New Zealand’s no-fault accident scheme has new limits. Know your entitlements for weekly compensation and treatment costs.
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Weekly Compensation is the financial lifeline for Kiwis unable to work due to an injury. In 2026, ACC continues to pay 80% of your pre-injury income, but the maximum weekly cap has been adjusted for inflation. This payment starts after the first week of incapacity (the first week is usually covered by your employer if it’s a work injury, or sick leave if non-work).
Crucially, casual workers and contractors are also eligible, but the calculation is based on your earnings over the last 52 weeks. It is vital to have your tax records (IR3) up to date.
Treatment Costs (Co-payments): ACC pays a fixed rate for treatments like physio, chiro, and dental. However, most providers charge a surcharge (co-pay). For 2026, ACC has increased the contribution rate for dental injuries caused by accidents (e.g., sports blows), reducing the gap you need to pay.
- Note: ACC does not cover general illness or aging-related dental issues. It must be an accident.
To claim, you do not contact ACC directly first. You must see a medical provider (Doctor, Physio, or Dentist). They will file the ACC45 Injury Claim Form on your behalf. Once accepted, you will receive a claim number via text/email.
Am I Covered? (The No-Fault Rule)
New Zealand’s system is unique. We don’t sue for personal injury; we get ACC. But not everything is covered.
Sprains, cuts, fractures, and burns caused by an external force. This includes injuries at work, home, or on the sports field.
Covered ONLY if it results from a physical injury or a specific traumatic event at work (e.g., witnessing a tragedy). General workplace stress is NOT covered.
If you are injured during medical treatment (e.g., a surgical error or reaction to medication), this is covered as a “Treatment Injury.”
ACC does NOT cover flu, cancer, heart attacks, or general wear-and-tear (e.g., back pain from sitting too long, unless a specific incident occurred).
3 Categories of Claims
Click the cards to understand how different accidents affect your entitlements.
Workplace Injury
Happened on the job?
CLICK TO FLIP ↻Employer’s Duty
First Week: Your employer must pay you 80% of your wages for the first week.
After that: ACC takes over payments directly.
Sports / Home
DIY or Rugby mishap?
CLICK TO FLIP ↻Your Responsibility
First Week: You are NOT paid for the first week. You must use Sick Leave or Annual Leave.
After that: ACC weekly comp begins.
Dental Accident
Tooth knocked out?
CLICK TO FLIP ↻Contribution Only
ACC pays a set amount (e.g., $200 for a filling). Dentists charge market rates. You MUST pay the difference (Surcharge).
Weekly Compensation Estimator
Calculate your potential weekly support (80% rule). Note: This is an estimate before tax.
ACC Payment (Weekly)
(80% of your earnings)
The “Surcharge” Trap
Fully Funded vs Surcharge
Many Kiwis assume ACC is “free.” It is not always. Most clinics are private businesses and charge a co-payment on top of the ACC subsidy.
Tip: Ask specifically for “No Surcharge” clinics or community providers if you want to avoid extra costs, though waiting lists may be longer.
Essential Related Reading
Wait! Before checking the FAQs, don't miss this exclusive guide related to your interest:
ACC Weekly Compensation NZ 2026 Forecast: Max Payouts & Dispute Rules
MyACC & Verified Resources
Manage your claim online, upload medical certs, and request reimbursement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, ACC will continue to pay weekly compensation for short holidays (up to 28 days), provided you have medical clearance that travel won’t worsen your injury. You MUST notify your case manager before leaving.
Yes, ACC subsidizes treatments from Chiropractors, Osteopaths, and Acupuncturists if they are ACC-registered. You will likely pay a surcharge.
You can choose between “ACC CoverPlus” (default) or “ACC CoverPlus Extra”. CoverPlus Extra allows you to agree on a fixed level of cover, so you know exactly what you’ll get paid, regardless of your income fluctuations.